WIDES(ID:7418/wid001)Simulation languageWIsconsin Discrete Event Simulation References: A new discrete event simulation language (WIDES) developed at the University of Wisconsin is described in this article. WIDES is a GASP-based collection of ANSI FORTRAN subroutine and data structures for use on small machines by inexperienced users, typical of an educational environment. Program listings, users' guides, and sample problems are available from the author. Four criteria for selecting a discrete event simulation language are outlined by the author: the modeling capabilities of the language, its programming ease, its value as an educational tool, and its cost of use. GASP is evaluated on each of these points. A list of typical student errors and problems encountered in using GASP are presented. The author describes how the new language was evolved from GASP in an attempt to overcome these deficiencies, and the resulting language WIDES is then evaluated on the same four criteria. The author concludes by giving an example (a simple inventory and waiting-line system) coded in WIDES, along with output generated by its execution. This article is well-organized and easy to read. It should be of particular interest to readers looking for a discrete simulation language designed to minimize programming time. Although WIDES was envisioned for an academic setting, it appears to offer sufficient power and flexibility to also warrant consideration in other settings. in ACM Computing Reviews 19(02) February 1978 view details |